A Fate Found In Clues

by Kelli Cooke

339 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 24, 2026

About the author

Corporate Girl turned Author, Kelli Cooke writes vibrant, funny, and authentic love stories. As a hopeless romantic, Kelli strives to bring a creative twist on what love looks like in real life infused with the kind of comedy that will keep you laughing long after finishing her books. While comedy is the star she also focuses on threading in raw emotion and hopes to impact hearts for years to come.

When she’s not writing, she can be found chasing around her two kids or binge watching a show with her husband. Kelli never expected to become an author but has embraced harnessing her creative ability and adores sharing her vibrant tales with her readers.

Reviews

[Melissa Chandler · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ARC Review✨
This was a fun, heartwarming- friends to lovers romance with witchy vibes from witchy sisters playing match makers! It was fun solving each puzzle along the way that lead them to love 🫶

Thank you Kelli for including me as an ARC reader!

Favorite quote:
Happiness, true fulfillment in life, is only found when we embrace the things that are uniquely designed for us.

[Emma Gold · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a satisfying read. The way Max and Sadie find each other and connect throughout the book is charming and whimsical! A perfect low-stakes read. I love the magical elements and the way you sometimes have to just let go of control and go with the flow of the universe. The spice was balanced and fit perfectly within their story arc. Really great book and I recommend this series to anyone who likes small town, magical, rom coms.

I loved that their chemistry felt real and the intimacy developed over the course of the story. I got to know them as they got to know each other, which makes me feel closer to the characters.

“Spending time around her is like spotting a unicorn in real life—it just doesn’t come along every day—or ever.”

Also it has one of my fave micro-tropes! He comes in his pants! Chef’s kiss.

One thing that was mildly annoying to read was, what I felt to be, an overuse of the word “coos” to describe a character speaking dialogue.

[Mallory · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very minor spoilers ahead:




I think this book pulled me out of the 4 month long book slump I’ve been in. It was THE PERFECT sweet, silly and sexy romance I needed to get me back into reading.

This is my second time receiving an ARC for this author and series and both times I loved the books. But this one is my absolute favorite. Sadie and Max were so perfect and the way they instantly had a connection and how easily they fell into love reminded me a lot of my husband and i’s story. It was different obviously but the ease of it, and how it just made sense for both of them is what reminds me of my relationship.

I loved the writing, this was such an easy and captivating book, the flow was perfect. It had so many sweet moments between all the characters, so many funny moments and it was seriously just the perfect romance.

I am so excited to see what else we get from this series!

[Nicke M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

The fictional town of Mage Hollow is just really special. You don’t have to read A Heart On A Sleeve, the first book in this series, before you read this one but I highly recommend you do. It helps with feeling connected to the town, the characters, the magic. Max & Sadie are a fun & cute couple and I loved reading them. Their story, solving the clues, and falling in love was just really fun to read. I smiled a lot. I liked seeing precious characters show up in this book and thinking about whose story might be next. And I LOVE the connections to another book series I love throughout this book as well. IYKYK.
Thank you to the author and Luna Literary for the chance to ARC read this book! I really enjoyed it a recommend!

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story had me hooked from the very first page. A witch’s curse and a touch of magic bring Sophie and Max together, but it’s their undeniable chemistry that truly makes the story shine. Set in a beautifully crafted magical town, the author creates a world filled with characters who feel so real they linger long after the final page. Charming, heartfelt, and impossible to put down.

[Jordin Messenger · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book, and this review is based on my honest opinion.

This was such a sweet, fun read. Sadie heads back to her hometown to take a break from work and reconnects with Max, a high school peer.
I loved the little quest her “aunt” sends her on. It added fun, and watching Sadie and Max work through it together made the story feel really cozy.
Sadie is a total workaholic who needed this reset, and I liked seeing her start to enjoy life more. Max is just an all-around good guy and is still figuring things out, which made him really easy to root for and relatable.
Their relationship is a slow burn. There’s also a little bit of spice mixed in, which I loved!
Overall, a cute small-town romance that’s light, sweet, and easy to get into. I’d definitely recommend it if you want something cozy with a little extra sparkle.

Thank you to Kelli and Luna Literary Management for including me as an ARC reader!

A Fate Found In CluesKelli Cooke

[Sarah Putrow · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun and heartwarming read with a witchy vibe. It may have taken me quite a bit to get into the book but once I got into it I was hooked. I knew about half way through this book was going to wreck me so be prepared to need some tissues.

The story is about Sadie who has a break down at work but is also cursed from a witchy friend to solve some puzzles while taking some downtime. She enlists the help of Max who she used to tutor back in high school. Max and Sadie both work in the hockey world and their time in their small town is limited to a month. They agree to make the most of the time they have together and solve the puzzles along the way.

Sadie and Max were the cutest! I loved their chemistry and banter. I really liked their relationship built up and them falling for each other. Max was such an amazingly dreamy book boyfriend that he's easily in my top favourites.

I loved the hint of magic in the book and how that puzzle book kept appearing everywhere following Sadie. All the characters were lovable and I enjoyed getting to know them all. I can't wait to dive into more stories in this world.

[Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Luna Literary and Kelli Cooke for my advanced copy.

This was really cute! Sadie is on leave from work and returns home to Mage Hollow to visit her family for the first time in years. She runs into Max who she tutored for a few weeks in high school. Sadie's Mom's best friend, Beth gives her a book and tells her to solve the rest of the crossword puzzle. Come to find out the book is a bit magical. Max being the sweet guy he is offers to help her solve the clues, and it brings them closer together. They plan to only spend a few weeks together over the summer as Sadie needs to get back to work eventually and Max has a new job offer across the country to get to. Well let's just say fate has a way of working things out. This is book 2 but they can obviously be read as standalones as I didn't feel like I missed out on anything from not having read the 1st book. This just released today!

[Selma · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book I’ve read by this author and I’m so so so excited to see who’s story is next!
Firstly thank you so much to Luna Literary and to the author for the opportunity to read this incredibly charming story.
If you want to fall in love with a magical charming town where each side character is also a beautiful addition to the story line.
In this story we follow Max and Sadie in the incredible town of Mage Hallow and their puzzle to falling in love.
It is low stakes but very captivating, I will say the pacing is perfection their chemistry is amazing and just the way they fall for each other was delightful and delivered perfectly.
This is the perfect read for spring. And if you haven’t read A heart on a Sleeve that’s okay ✅ it’s not necessary for you to enjoy this one, but I would recommend reading that one in fall! 😉

[Colleen Stiles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the ideal summer beach read! It’s a cozy fantasy that fits my vibe perfectly. The two main characters are relatable and have room for growth, but they don't face any major flaws that need fixing.Although this standalone romance is part of the Mage Hallow series, you can enjoy it on its own. That said, reading it alongside A Heart on a Sleeve and Cassandra Moll’s Golden City Series adds depth, thanks to some crossover characters.Sadie is an overworked and a bit anxious foundation worker in charge of the Flames Hockey Team Foundation, which highlights kids involved in hockey. Max is a former player who couldn't make it to the big leagues due to injuries and is now uncertain about his next steps. This book is perfect for anyone looking to escape into a delightful summer story!

[Mandy Prather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for A Fate Found in Clues Book two of the Mage Hollow Magic series. Im so excited to read this series.
This is Max and Sadie's story...
After Sadie has a panic attack at work he boss makes her take a sabbatical from work. He other friend Beth. Decide she needs a push in the right direction.
Max had to quit playing hockey after getting hurt to many times. Now he is a volunteer coach but needed a job with pay.
When Sadie comes home she didn't expect a Magic book to show up everywhere she goes especially around Max. Max is more then willing to help with her magical crossword puzzles that seem to be leading her to one thing. I love this series is is beautiful and I cant wait for more.

[Amie Ambers · Rating 5 out of 5]

We've got a 5% read coming in hot!!
If you're searching for that perfect blend of magic and small-town charm, look no further than A Fate Found in Clues! @kelcookesbooks weaves a magical tale of love and learning how to enjoy life in the second installment of her series set in the enchanting Mage Hollow, a haven for witches fleeing Salem's past. Who knew that the magic of love could manifest in such unexpected ways?
In this charming story, we meet Sadie-an overachiever working with the NHL Golden City Flames. When a panic attack at work prompts a much-needed break, Sadie finds herself back in her quaint hometown. Enter Mad Max, a former hockey player grappling with the aftermath of injuries and seeking a new way to stay connected to the sport he loves. Their reunion, sparked by a mysterious puzzle book challenge from Sadie's old boss, sets the stage for a slow-burn romance that's as heartwarming as it is humorous and spicy!
Cooke's writing envelops you like a cozy blanket, expertly blending relatable themes of personal growth with whimsical elements of magic. You can't help but root for Sadie as she learns to embrace life outside the grind of her job, while Max serves up plenty of laughs and swoon-worthy moments that cement his status as book boyfriend material.
With its enchanting setting and a story that celebrates the joy of finding love in the most unconventional ways, A Fate Found in Clues is truly a 5-star read. Whether you're a fan of cozy romances or just looking for a magical escape, this is one journey you won't want to end!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Star rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice level: 🫑🌶️ (mild)

This is the second book in the mage hollow magic series but can be read as a standalone. I have not read the first book but with how much I enjoyed this book, I'll definitely be going back to read book 1. We follow Sadie as she works on finding the balance between work and having a life, of course she cannot do so without the "push" from a family friend. Don't worry, she obviously needed help solving the clues and who better than Max. These two had great chemistry and their opposite personalities made it very fun to follow. While we did get some fiery scenes, we didn't have enough for me to rate it higher than a mild spice BUT don't let that stop you from reading. The story kept me very much engaged and laughing without the wild dirty stuff.

[DaniReads12]

📚A Fate Found In Clues📚 by the one and only Kelli Cooke.
@kelcookesbooks

This is the second book in the Mage Hollow series.
This fun summer rom com is a must read.

Kelli adds her magical touch to every story leaving feeling like there's true magic in the world. Kelli created Mage Hollow as a place you'd want to pack your bags and move to.

This story Sadie and Max is one of mysteries and fate.
Moments of laughter, moments you're at the tip of your chair. Kelli, my dearest indie author friend, keep making your magic. I'm sure I'm not the only one who wants to move to Mage Hollow.

[Melissa Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sweet story of 2 people who come together after having known each other in high school but not dating. Sadie is a workaholic that needs to have some fun and find her work-life balance. Max is a great guy that hasn’t found his dreams just yet. A book of clues left for Sadie leads her to her fate while she and Max are hanging out for a few weeks in their home town. There’s a touch of spice too. I definitely recommend this book to anyone looking to read a small town, sweet and spicy love story.

[Karen B · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful, small town romcom with a charming setting, whimsical plot, relatable characters and a touch of magical appeal! A friendship between opposites, Sadie and Max, trying to figure out their future, develops into more as they go on a quirky quest involving keys and clues that requires them to work together. They had to face some tough decisions too, putting life into perspective. I smiled and laughed, and had a good time! I’ll go back to Mage Hollows with its Gilmore Girls vibes and characters any day!
Thanks to the author and Luna Literary Management for the eARC

[Rida Colon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Was lucky enough to be chosen for an ARC read on this one. Absolutely loved this easy romance read that hooked me from the start. Each chapter had me wanting more clues, more of Max and Sadie’s friendship that you could feel the emotions radiating off the pages. The witchy magical vibes thrown in with the characters coming together to work out the puzzle keeps you hooked on their journey. As a workaholic myself it was so easy to relate to these love interests and their story. It is an interconnected series and I cannot wait to read more.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I would definitely read book 1 of the series first. It gives you a better background of the characters and I find it more enjoyable knowing more about the other characters in the story. I cannot wait for the next one. This author stories are exactly what I’m looking for something light and easy to read. They keep my attention and I want to find out what happens. I will be reading anything Kelli publishes.

[Kalexreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet and funny. Sadie and Max reconnect when she heads back to her hometown while taking a leave of absence from her job. Her pseudo aunt sends her on a quest that involves solving some crossword puzzles. Along the way, she and Max discover the magical nature of the quest and work together to have some fun while solving the puzzles. They both know their relationship has an end time, but that doesn’t stop them from falling for each other. Is the timing right for them? A slow burn romance with a little bit of spice. Super fun read!

[Liliam · Rating 4 out of 5]

This romcom was such a well-written story!
The magic touch kept me on my toes, and I just wanted to keep reading more. I definitely need to read the first book now since I enjoyed this one so much! I really liked that there was no miscommunication or unclear expectations. Max and Saddie wanted a summer romance, and that's exactly what they got. Benny was my favorite. I can't wait to read more!

[Rebecca Gulley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed my second trip back to Mage Hollow. Sadie and Max’s story was such a fun read, filled with magic, hilarious moments, warm weather vibes, and just the right amount of spice. I found myself completely swept up in their world. If you’re a fan of Gilmore Girls and Practical Magic, you will definitely want to check out A Fate Found in Clues.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review💕 I got to meet this author last year and she was such a wonderful person to talk with.

This series is just so fun to read.

This book A Fate Found In Clues, got me all kinds of in the feels, I laughed and I cried. I really enjoyed the pacing of the book, the FMC and MMC clear communication with each other and just the all around awesomeness of a supportive family.

[Becky Mansur · Rating 5 out of 5]

even cuties than the first

I enjoyed book one and the changing tattoo/curse, but I think I liked this one more. Maybe because the “curse” this time was more of an obvious matchmaking. The aunt pushing for her to slow down and see what’s there. I can’t wait to see what happens next- hopefully Howies story.

[Ashley Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨️thank you Luna Literary for the e-arc✨️

• first person
• Dual POV

This series kelli is writing is different and so well done. I enjoyed book 1 and was so excited for book 2.

another well done book. the magical aspect? perfect. the romance? perfect. Sadie & Max were so fun to read about!

[Sarah Atkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW - this was an easy, cute read. I enjoyed the magical vibes it had and the puzzles throughout the book too. Thank you for the ARC for this book - enjoyable read ☺️

[Bree]

A Fate Found in Clues by Kelli Cooke is the kind of soft, cozy romance that just wraps you up like your favorite blanket ☕📖✨ Following Sadie and Max as they unravel little clues about their future, it’s full of sweet moments, playful tension, and that “meant to be” magic that makes your heart happy. The whole time I was literally kicking my feet and giggling because it’s just so cute 🥹💖 such a perfect feel good read if you love small town vibes and a love story that slowly clicks into place.

[Reading With Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fate Found In Clues is perfect for Gilmore girls and practical magic fans 🔮 I LOVED Sadie and Max's story so much! This is a read that will pull you in gently and refuses to let go.

[Book Dragon’s Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC read this and I was absolutely hooked! This book was so good! The clues, the romance, the emotional moments! I felt so many of these moments as a mom and a woman in general. Kelli wrote some perfection over here and I cannot wait for book 3! Absolutely addicted!

[Trisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found the writing a little confusing at times. The story was good and I loved the FMC & MMC. I would’ve liked a little more magic and more about the sisters. Overall a good read.

[Destin Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the absolute pleasure of BETA reading A Fate Found in Clues, book two in the Mage Hollow series written by the incredibly talented Kelli Cooke, and while it’s an interconnected standalone, it feels like coming home in the best way. This story takes you on such an incredible, magical journey, whisking us back to our beloved Mage Hollow. We follow Sadie, our fiercely driven FMC, who is deeply passionate about her career and unwavering in her meticulously planned life. Every detail is accounted for except for a social life, fun, or love. Control is her comfort zone. Enter Max: wildly attractive, former hockey player, total golden retriever energy MMC. The contrast between these two? Absolutely chef’s kiss. When Sadie is forced into a mandatory leave of absence from work, she returns home to Mage Hollow to regroup with her family. After a visit from her lifelong friend, she’s gifted a mysterious leather-bound book infused with magic… a book said to contain all the clues she needs to discover her true path in life. The only problem? Sadie is perfectly content with the path she’s already chosen. Watching this fierce corporate queen wrestle with destiny, balance, and the possibility of letting go is both heartwarming and hilarious. Will she learn that life isn’t meant to be lived in spreadsheets and schedules alone? You’ll have to read A Fate Found in Clues to find out.

This was a solid five star read for me. It’s fun, lighthearted, playful, and downright hilarious at times, with just enough spice sprinkled in to keep you wanting more. I absolutely adore the magical elements that entwine the Mage Hollow characters together into such a beautiful found family adventure. But most of all, I love the message behind the magic: it’s okay to have fun. It’s okay to loosen your grip. It’s okay to give yourself grace and embrace being carefree every once in a while, especially in the world we live in today. Some stories entertain you, while others remind you who you are beneath the noise and corporate chaos. That life isn’t a checklist, it’s meant to be lived! A Fate Found in Clues does both, wrapping its magic around your heart and refusing to let go.